Media report - Austrian police take away the cars of 70 speeding drivers
In Austria, according to research by the newspaper "Der Standard," at least 70 cars of extremist racers have been temporarily seized. The latest case was a 26-year-old in Tyrol who was driving at 180 km/h in an 80 km/h zone, the paper reports. Since March 1st, anyone driving more than 80 km/h in the town area or more than 90 km/h outside of it faster than permitted can expect to have their vehicle seized. If there is already a relevant fine, such as participation in illegal car races, the vehicle can be seized even for exceeding speed limits by more than 60 km/h in the town area and 70 km/h outside of it.
Austria: Transport Ministry speaks of positive initial experiences
However, for a permanent confiscation and auction of the vehicle, there are further costs. According to the newspaper, which cites statements from two ministries and nine authorities, only in two cases have vehicles been officially confirmed as seized. The corresponding administrative penalty proceedings can end with the auction of the vehicle. One case involved a 21-year-old who was caught driving at 247 km/h in Vienna.
The Transport Ministry reportedly spoke to the newspaper of "overall positive" initial experiences with the new penalties. However, it is still too early for a comprehensive analysis.
Austria followed countries like Italy and Switzerland with this measure. Already in 2021, the Alpine republic raised fines and the duration of driver's license suspension significantly in an initial anti-racer package.
- Following the implementation of stricter traffic laws, the Tyrolean Police in Austria can confiscate a car if its driver participates in illegal car races, even outside the specified speed limit increase.
- In Vienna, a 21-year-old had their car permanently confiscated after being caught driving at an excessive speed of 247 km/h, incurring both confiscation and auction costs.
- The Austrian Transport Ministry, inspired by Italy and Switzerland, has reported positive initial experiences with the new measures, including vehicle confiscation for severe traffic violations, but a comprehensive analysis is yet to be conducted.
